California Department of Transportation

ECONOMIC STIMULUS DELIVERS $37.2 MILLION TO REPAVE HIGHWAY 101

San Luis Obispo County – Caltrans today announced that work has
begun on a $41.2 million project that will resurface 11 miles of U.S. Highway
101 in San Luis Obispo County. This project is financed primarily ($37.2
million) by President Obama’s American Recovery and Reinvestment
Act of 2009 (Recovery Act). The remaining funding is being provided by
the State Highway Operation and Protection Program.

“My Administration is working hand-in-hand with President Obama's
team to ensure stimulus dollars are pumped into California quickly and
responsibly to stimulate the economy and in this instance - invest in the
future of the California’s transportation infrastructure,” said
Governor Schwarzenegger.

On average, more than 40,000 vehicles daily travel the section of Highway
101 that will be resurfaced with new pavement expected to last 20 years.
In addition to repaving the highway between Santa Margarita and Atascadero,
Caltrans will widen bridges at Santa Margarita Creek, Atascadero Creek
and Traffic Way and resurface the on and off-ramps at Santa Margarita,
San Diego Road, Santa Rosa Road, Curbaril Avenue, Highway 41 and Traffic
Way. Papich Construction of Pismo Beach is the primary contractor
for the project. The project is scheduled to be completed in spring
2012.

“With the help of Recovery Act funds, we are able to repair highways
in the Central Coast and in every region of California and provide a smooth,
safe commute for motorists,” said Caltrans Chief Deputy Director
Cindy McKim.

“This project will ensure that our employees will continue to have
jobs, which will help to stimulate the economy,” said Jason Papich,
President of Papich Construction of Pismo Beach. “This
project will also improve conditions for the many commuters and tourists
who use Highway 101 on a daily basis.”